Hazelnut Quinoa Salad

For those of you who have never tried quinoa (pronounced keen-wah), you need to!! It's a whole grain that is absolutely delicious and super good for you! With no further ado:

1/2 c quinoa
1/2 c bottled Italian salad dressing
1/2 c hazelnuts, coarsely chopped
1 medium cucumber, peeled and diced
1 c cherry tomatoes, halved
1 c petite peas, frozen, thawed and drained
1/2 c yellow or orange bell pepper, seeded and diced
1/4 tsp black pepper


Place quinoa in 1 c water in medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat. Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 min. or until water is absorbed. Fluff with fork. Cool completely.

Process salad dressing and 1/4 c hazelnuts in food processor or blender until smooth; set aside.

Place cooked, cooled quinoa in large bowl. Add cucumbers, tomatoes, peas, and bell pepper. Pour dressing over salad and toss until blended. Sprinkle with black pepper and remaining hazelnuts. Serve immediately.